He’s been raised to carry on the legacy. After her mother’s untimely death, Emma Monroe’s dreams to become a teacher are dashed. She takes a job as maid and cook at the local Stratton Ranch, where she endures humiliation and hardship in order to provide for her ailing father and younger brother. Only Riley Stratton, her childhood friend and heir to the Stratton fortune, sees her heart. When … Stratton fortune, sees her heart. When she’s asked to care for Skye, the young half-Indian girl most family members refuse to claim, Emma finally finds the purpose she craves.
Riley Stratton has it all, or so it seems. Growing up as the youngest son of the rich and powerful John Stratton, Riley stands to inherit a legacy of greatness in the Stratton Ranch. On the surface, his family looks like they have it all, but manipulation, deceit, and an ever-present quest for power leave him desperate for change. Yet his father has made it clear: do things the Stratton way, or face alienation and disinheritance.
As Riley and Emma choose between honor, dreams, and expectations—not to mention the love they can no longer deny—their first steps prove how quickly the situation can spin into danger. When their best efforts threaten the lives and hopes of those closest to them, it becomes clear the decisions they make will change the course of their lives forever.
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This book showed how faith in God can over come any obstacle. This was a very good book to read and I highly recommend reading this one!
Legacy of Honor by Renae Brumbaugh Green is a really enjoyable Historical Romance. I was hooked into the storyline right away and remained engaged the whole time. I found the characters delightful. Emma is a courageous and brave young woman who will stand up for what is right even if it means others may not like her so much. I appreciate how she genuinely cares more about what God would think about her than what the world does. Emma is quite an inspirational character. Riley is a great hero. He is handsome and kind, but what I love most about his character is that he pays attention to detail and he is willing to do what needs to be done in order to become the man God wants him to be. And, then there is Skye. My heart broke for this character. She is so sweet and special despite her young life having been so hard. I love how Emma and Riley take a genuine interest in her life and do all they can to give her a great childhood. In addition to a highly engaging plot and a cast of excellent characters, Legacy of Honor also deals with superb themes that I feel are timely for today. All in all, Legacy of Honor is a must-read Historical Romance that I highly recommend.
Riley has a problem. His family’s legacy isn’t one he wants to carry on, but he loves them and he never wants to hurt them. Riley is between a rock and a hard place. The more time he spends with Emma and her family, the more Riley realizes that he wants what they have and not what his family is. It’s not that he doesn’t love his family. He totally does. It’s just that the members of his family are worldly and selfish, and they have no qualms about doing whatever it takes to get what they want when they want it. They go to church on Sunday, but they have no real knowledge of God and no concept of having a relationship with Him. Riley wants to change his life, make his legacy one he and a future family could be proud of, so he makes the decision to go God’s way no matter how awful his family may treat him. I found Riley to be quite brave. It’s really hard to go against your family even when you know it’s the right thing to do, and it’s hard to hear mean and negative things come from those you love because they don’t or won’t accept your changes. But when the choice is what God wants versus what your family wants, you’ve got to pick God every time no matter what.
There is a lot to love about Legacy of Honor. It is a well-written, highly engaging story. The romance is sweet and well balanced. And the themes are timely. If you are looking for a really good Historical Romance to escape into then Legacy of Honor is the novel for you!
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author, Renae Brumbaugh Green, via Celebrate Lit. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The strong characters leapt from the pages of the book straight into my heart.
This book Legacy of Honor was fantastic. I read it in one sitting because I could not put it down. Renae Brumbaugh Green did a great job with the lay out and characters in this book. It is the first book in her Stratton Legacy Series, and boy am I looking forward to reading more books from her!
Emma Monroe was a strong female character that was easy to like, she showed good growth through the book, and I loved her caring nature. She shows the true light of Christ to those around her even during her own sorrows. The other main character Riley Stratton was a good example of the prodigal son. I also enjoyed the banter between Riley and Emma as well as the sweet edition of Skye.
The plot was very engaging and had ups and downs that kept me interested and eager to see what would happen next. What I really enjoyed though was Renae Brumbaugh Green’s consistent pointing towards God being the answer to our problems and that we need a personal relationship with Him. It was realistic and a great addition that was weaved seamlessly into the story.
Overall, I give this book 5 out of 5 stars for the smile worthy movements, the well written characters plots, and for pointing us all back to Jesus.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
Legacy of Honor is a good book. Set in the old west this story focuses on family relationships, class structure, and prejudices. Add in faith and romance to add spice. I enjoyed this story.
This book was provided through Celebrate Lit and the author for me to read. The opinions expressed are my own.
What kind of legacy are you leaving behind? Can you change your family’s direction? This is a a story of two families, their legacies, and a love that wants to buck against the status quo.
Emma Monroe has just lost her mother and her dreams of attending college. Not willing to leave her ailing father and young brother, she takes on the job as housekeeper for the Stratton family, previously her mother’s role. What she sees, hears, and experiences is less than idea. This family is known as the richest and they go to church, but obviously only for show. Not only are they high and mighty, but they have some secrets they are trying to keep hidden.
Riley Stratton has had a soft spot for Emma and her mother for a long time. Especially due the kindness Mrs. Monroe showed him as a boy. He is determined to help this family even going against his own father’s wishes. There is something different about their home life that he craves and knows he needs desperately.
I really enjoyed this contrast of families. What makes them who they are and hint, hint, it is not their possessions. Very engrossing read of the importance of legacy and I am looking forward to how this legacy continues to grow.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Legacy of Honor is a really good historical read that I enjoyed very much. I love Emma and my heart went out to her for the things that she had to endure. But her longtime friend Riley makes it possible. I love this young man! But Skye is my favorite character by far. She was such a sweet soul and watching the emotions with she and Emma is worth the read. There,s a lot to learn here. Money and power is not all there is. It’s not so hard to figure out the ending, or so it wasn’t for me, but I so much enjoyed the journey through the book. This is a five star read for me for sure. I can’t wait for more in this wonderful series.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I loved reading what the author had to say about Legacy of Honor and how it came to be. The inspiration and bit of true story behind it definitely made it one I wanted to read. But just the synopsis alone would have drawn me in too. A girl making her way in the world to support her family. And a man who has the right status in society but his heart and his head aren’t agreeing.
This was a great book! It read quickly and kept me interested the whole time. This book read quickly as I didn’t want to put it down. It wasn’t intense suspense but rather gentle rolling what is going to happen and how will this end up?
I have read and enjoyed many books by this author now and am excited about this new series. It’s going to be a good one if this first book is any indication! This is definitely an author to follow because she keeps coming out with books that captivate me.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
What you should know:
Legacy of Honor by Renae Brumbaugh Green is the first book in The Stratton Legacy Series. It is set in Lampasas, Texas in 1882.
What you might need to know:
Skye’s Mother was a Native American, parts of her family are unwilling to accept her due to this.
What I think about the book:
When Emma’s Mother passes away she gives up her dream of becoming a teacher to go to work to provide for her sick father and younger brother. When she takes her mother’s former position she learns that the Stratton family is extremely hard to work for. However knowing she has to provide for her family she has to endure their humiliation. I love how she demonstrated grace in adversity. I love how she accepted Skye without hesitation and tried to bring joy back into her life. My heart ached for Skye, I hated to see how she was living and treated. Riley was an unlikely hero, however Green wrote him in a way that I found myself cheering for him and willing him to become the man he wanted to be. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next book in the series
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
Legacy of Honor is a truly beautiful story of faith and honor yet the tale contains many ugly scenes as it develops. A vivid illustration of how the choices a person makes can affect their own life as well as the lives of others, this book has the potential to impact future choices made by its readers.
Two families have major roles in this narrative and the families could not be more different. One family is a simple one with a strong faith and their actions honor their beliefs. They may not be wealthy but they are content with their life and at peace with the Lord. The other family is wealthy and powerful yet always seems to want more and to hold grudges and resentment against those they consider their enemies.
From these families come Riley Stratton and Emma Monroe who have been friends since childhood. Emma is as good as gold and has followed in her late mother’s footsteps in her love and care for others. Although Riley is a Stratton, somehow he has managed to avoid the arrogant and callous attitude of his father and brother. He loves them both but is uncomfortable taking part in their activities.
This book held me captive from the very beginning with its gripping narrative, true-to-life characters, and steady pace. As Riley and Emma face difficult choices, tragedy and faith eventually lead them to victory. Legacy of Honor is a must read in my opinion.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
I think I’ve found a new favorite male character and his name is Riley Stratton, a man ‘capable of leaving a string of broken hearts’ but considerate enough to know when a person’s heart is breaking! Riley experienced the loss of his own mother so he understands what Emma Monroe is going through after the death of her mother and he wants to help his former classmate get through the grief. Will Emma give up her dream of becoming a teacher so that she can help her family by taking the housekeeping job that her mother held? Can she handle the pressure of working for this very wealthy and very unhappy family? Will her gentle encouragement and loving nature help Riley and his family find hope and faith?
This is a marvelous story filled with fascinating characters and intriguing situations. A long-time grudge and the prejudice against an innocent child both offer intense conflicts but author Renae Brumbaugh Green buffers them with a sweet romance and the assurance that God is always there to love and forgive.
Legacy of Honor is the first book in the Stratton Legacy and I look forward to learning more about this family. I highly recommend this book to all who enjoy Christian historical romance.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
I have read and enjoyed Renae Brumbaugh Green books in the past. I was excited to have the opportunity to read Legacy of Honor. I was not disappointed. It is probably my favorite I have read by her to date. Emma is one of those characters that made instantly adore from page one. I felt connected to her and understood her struggles. I loved it when she met Riley. They had great chemistry together. I had to find out how it would end for the two. It was somewhat predictable, but still oh so good to read.
Legacy of Honor will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars from me. I can not wait to find out what happens next from The Stratton Legacy series. I highly recommend this one for readers who enjoy clean Historical Romance.
I received Legacy of Honor from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
This was the first book I’ve read by author Renae Brumbaugh Green, and I really enjoyed it. I felt drawn into the story as Green writes in a very warm way. Her characters are many things. Spunky, honorable, timid,and arrogant, but they certainly aren’t boring.
The story proves the old adage that money can’t buy happiness, and shows us how it can corrupt. We see Riley and Emma, both dealing with difficult situations, grow as individuals. Will they grow together or apart? Will they make Godly choices, or will family and money define them? The plot and story line are very well written as we see two individuals from completely different backgrounds search for what’s right. If you enjoy Christian historical fiction with clean romance then I recommend giving this story a try.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
When everything in the world seems terrible, find one flicker of light, one small piece of hope and focus on that. You will always find something to be thankful for, if you look hard enough – Mother
Emma Monroe finds this statement to be very important in her life, since mother has passed away. Taking on the job of income earner, she becomes the cook, housekeeper and even babysitter at the Stratton mansion, a position her mother had filled very capably. Can she possibly be a light and bring hope to this unhappy family?
Riley Stratton has always felt the shackles of his family name have defined him. Choices always have consequences, which can be seen in his family – will Riley trust God, separate himself and make the right ones?
I received an ARC of this fabulous book through WildHeart Books and CelebrateLit. The comments, impressions and rating are my own and were in no way solicited.
This book starts a new series for the author and oh my is it good right out of the gate. The author shares a story of two families that are different as night and day. I feel in love with Emma right away. I cried with her as she grieved over her mother. I liked how the author portrayed Emma’s mother as hard working and faith filled. Her influence over her daughter is evident in everything she does. Emma has a big heart and treats others with respect.
There is one character in the story that I didn’t really like. This person is arrogant, stuck up and down right mean to Emma. I wanted to scream and tell Emma not to let this person take away her dignity. The beauty of the story is how Emma rises above all the hatred and shows mercy to those who may not deserve it from her. I loved how she went out and got a job to help her dad and brother out. By the grace of God, Emma is able to work in an environment that is truly mentally unhealthy.
Riley is someone I would like to have on my side. He struggles with his faith at times but when it comes to doing the right thing he never backs down. His family has anger issues, they are greedy and dishonest. If it wasn’t for Riley I think the family would probably not speak to each other. There are some underhanded deals going on and Riley is determined to make things right. I liked how nice he was to Emma and I already sensed an attraction developing.
One of the highlights of the story for me was getting to know Skye. This innocent young girl has been through a lot in her life that made me cry. I‘m sure she knew that she was talked about and the treatment she gets from her grandfather is hard to understand. During the time period the story is set, Skye is treated as an outcast by many. Riley and Emma overwhelmed me with their unconditional love for Skye.
The story is well written and I’m anxious to read the next in the series. The author writes an emotional ending to this story that showed God is always there to comfort us and provide for us. Forgiveness plays a big part in the story and I loved how one particular character allowed God to soften their heart. I highly recommend this story as the author takes us to a place in Texas that I am very familiar with. Being from Texas I loved reading this story and getting a feeling of the west during the late 1880s.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
What is the legacy that you will leave? This is the question plaguing the main characters of the Legacy of Honor. Emma Monroe’s grief is fresh when her mother passes away and she has to try to live life without her mother by her side. Riley was not related to Mrs. Monroe but he was greatly impacted by her wisdom and companionship. Upon her death, Emma and Riley are faced with new questions about their choices and the impact it will make on the future. Riley Stratton has certain expectations from his family as well so how will it influence his decisions.
The relationship with Emma and Riley as they face grief in different ways was very believable and relatable. The story line progressed at a good pace and I wanted to keep reading to see what would happen. I felt like humor was in the right places and I enjoyed the heart changes. I really enjoyed this heartwarming story.
I really enjoyed the part where Riley’s mother had left him a Bible with many truths as part of her legacy. Although she was no longer on earth, she was able to make a difference in his life. I would like to think I leave a legacy like that.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
A search for peace
My rating is 4.5 stars
Emma dealt with the grief over her mother’s death. Riley searched for peace.
Emma’s spunk was delightful! When her new employer grossly insulted her, she refused to kowtow and just quit! I loved the way she stood up for herself and for what was right and good!
When Emma met the motherless Skye, her heart went out to her and she knew that it was her mission to love her. It was heartwarming to see how Emma was willing to endure insults and hardship for the sake of this precious little life! One of my favorite moments was when Emma chose to return kindness for insult, knowing it was the right thing to do, even though it was the hardest thing to do.
Riley’s struggle was so difficult! Following God meant turning his back on his family and everything they stood for. He agonized over this and my heart went out to him as he saw the enormity of the consequences of his choice.
I loved seeing the author’s love for the Lord shine through as Emma and Riley learned about the love of God for them. Despite bad things that continued to happen and the consequences of following the right path set before each of them, they were able to see the best choice was to live in a way that was honoring to God above all else. It was so beautiful!
Legacy of Honor was a lovely story. I appreciated that the author didn’t make the choices easy – they had to work for their happy ending. And things weren’t all happy in the end but they were realistic. I am looking forward to seeing which characters the next story in this new series will be about!
Read my review of Legacy of Honor by Renae Brumbaugh Green at AmongTheReads.net
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Which legacy will he choose?
An engaging start to a brand new series, with an intriguing plot and strong protagonists that I couldn’t help but cheer for the whole way through. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read, with a full cast of characters, and the right amount of conflict to move the plot and entertain without making me frustrated.
Emma Monroe is a strong duty-driven young woman, she is devoted to her family, giving up her dreams of college and teaching. She is compassionate, caring, and intelligent, finding ways to show kindness to Skye, a half-Indian girl who lives on the Stratton’s ranch and is sorely mistreated.
Riley is a man who appears to have it all, born into a wealthy ranching family, that he is expected to take his place among. But as his family’s unsavory legacy becomes harder to ignore, he delves deeper in his family’s history and is faced with a choice. Riley is friendly and outgoing, but most of all I admired his courage.
Overall, this was a entertaining and engaging read from beginning to end, with a well woven plot, and excellent, well developed characters in this story of faith and honor. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a well written book that hooks you on the first page and doesn’t let go. Riley and Emma’s story will touch your heart and little Skye will steal your heart. The author made the book come to life with her words. It’s a beautifully written book that you don’t want to miss. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Wild Heart Books and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Choices effect your life every day – good choices, bad choices, monumental choices and then there are those that change your life. This book is all about choices that different characters make. They make them all during the story and they effect themselves and they effect different characters and you can really see important they are. The main characters, Emma and Riley, certainly make some big ones but so do secondary characters and they effect Emma and Riley a lot, plus others. It’s a fascinating study in human nature! I absolutely loved this book! Riley seems to have it all – he’s rich, comes from the wealthiest family in town and is handsome & educated. However, his home life, behind closed doors, is not what one would want! Not a lot of warm fuzzies! Riley is the only one who is “normal”!!!! Emma, although poor, has to enter that world because she has to work there when her mother dies and she takes over her mother’s job. She suffers so much! I don’t know if I could have stood all that she had to go through! She had faith in God though and that’s what kept her going! Riley’s family treated her terribly. However, she’s supporting her family and can’t quit. I loved the ways Riley changed through the book and how he decided to defy his family. I also loved the way Emma became stronger and took hold of her dreams in other ways than what she originally had. I beautifully written book that cannot be missed!